A safe place for women and children,
Learn How to Get Help
If you have been living in an abusive relationship, you may feel confused and afraid and not know where to turn or what to do. You may have mixed feelings of love and anger; wanting the abuse to end, but not wanting the relationship to be over. You may know that things need to change but not know how that can happen or what services or resources are available in our community. You may have a lot of questions about the future and about where you might find support and safety.
At the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, we believe that no one deserves to be abused and that there are alternatives to living with abuse. We are here to provide information about your options and alternatives and to let you know what services are available, to support you as you make decisions and plans and to help you to take steps you feel are necessary to improve your life.
Your partner may have used many tactics to control you and your life. You may have become isolated from family and friends and any other supports. Your partner may have told you that there was no abuse, that the abuse was your fault, that no one would believe you, that it wasn’t that bad, that you are crazy, that you can’t make it on your own, that you are a bad mom and that you will lose your children, or that he will find you and hurt or kill you if you leave or go to the police.
Nobody deserves abuse and abuse is never the fault of the victim. Feelings of self-doubt, fear, shame and hopelessness are common among women who have been abused. All of these emotions can be part of how an abusive relationship wears down the self-esteem and confidence of the victim. The good news is that many women are able to find safety and healing and move past their experiences of abuse. Whatever your past experiences, the future can be much better.
We also offer support and counselling services for children who have experienced abuse in the family, and their mothers/caregivers. These types of services can help children to deal with their feelings, as well as helping to break cycles of abuse in families. For more information about our Children Who Witness Abuse Program please call 250-763-1040 and ask to speak with the CWWA Counsellor.
It is important to know that you do not have to leave your relationship, stay at the Shelter or make a police report in order to access our services. We respect and support your right to make your own choices.
We want to support you in ensuring that your children are safe from witnessing or experiencing abuse. Our staff can help you to assess risk in your family and take the appropriate protection steps.
